In the heart of Croatian cuisine lies a dish that embodies the country's rich culinary heritage: Kelj Cuspajz, a hearty and flavorful kale stew. This traditional Croatian dish is a symphony of simple, rustic ingredients, masterfully combined to create a comforting and satisfying meal. Discover the authentic Croatian recipe for Kelj Cuspajz, along with three enticing variations that add a unique twist to this classic stew. From the traditional version packed with smoked meats and aromatic spices to the vegetarian delight featuring roasted vegetables and a touch of paprika, these recipes offer a kaleidoscope of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
**Traditional Croatian Kale Stew (Kelj Cuspajz):**
This classic recipe showcases the essence of Croatian comfort food. Tender kale, smoked meats, and a medley of vegetables simmer in a savory broth, infused with the warmth of paprika and garlic.
**Vegetarian Kale Stew:**
For a plant-based twist, this recipe replaces smoked meats with an array of roasted vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers. The addition of paprika and a touch of vinegar lends a vibrant flavor profile.
**Kale Stew with Sausage and Bacon:**
This hearty variation is a carnivore's delight. Smoked sausage and bacon add a smoky, savory dimension to the stew, while a splash of white wine deglazes the pan, infusing the broth with an extra layer of complexity.
**Spicy Kale Stew:**
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this recipe incorporates spicy chorizo and a dash of cayenne pepper. The chorizo brings a rich, smoky flavor, while the cayenne adds a subtle kick that lingers on the palate.
Embark on a culinary journey through Croatia with these four kale stew recipes, each offering a unique taste experience. From the traditional to the innovative, these dishes celebrate the versatility andおい deliciousness of this humble vegetable.
CROATIAN LEEK STEW ( PORILUK CUSPAJZ")
This recipe is at least 200 years old. My grand-grandmother was preparing leek that way, my, grandmother was preparing that way, my mother was preparing that way, so I am preparing it that way. This is very healthy meal, although it is prepared on pork fat.
Provided by nitko
Categories Stew
Time 35m
Yield 4 p, 4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- Wash the leek very thoroughly (there might be some mud between the leaves) and cut them in 1 inch pieces (also the green parts, at least nice looking one).
- Preheat the water and when it boils put the leek in it and leave it boil for one minute.
- During this operation prepare this: put lard in a pot, heat it and brown flour in lard (but not too brown).
- Add grounded paprika and just few drops of cold water to make "zafrig" (a kind of "sauce veloutè").
- Take out leek with hollow spoon, add sliced potato in small cubes and water you have cooked leek in it.
- Season with salt and pepper and cook until potato is soft (10-20 minutes).
- Serve as a side dish to steaks, sausages, dried smoked ham etc.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 268.3, Fat 10.5, SaturatedFat 3.5, Cholesterol 20.4, Sodium 403.2, Carbohydrate 35.5, Fiber 4.5, Sugar 7.3, Protein 9.8
CROATIAN KALE (SAVOY CABBAGE) STEW (KELJ CUSPAJZ)
This recipe is at least 200 years old. My grand-grandmother was preparing savoy cabbage that way, my, grandmother was preparing that way, my mother was preparing that way, so I am preparing it that way. This is very healthy meal, although it is prepared on lard.
Provided by nitko
Categories Stew
Time 30m
Yield 4 portions, 4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Wash the savoy cabbage and cut it in 1 inch pieces.
- Preheat the water and when it boils put the savoy cabbage in it and leave it boil for one minute.
- During this operation prepare this: put lard in a pot, heat it and add finely sliced garlic and bacon (pancetta), brown flour in lard (but not too brown).
- Add ground paprika and just few drops of cold water to make "zafrig" (a kind of "sauce veloutè").
- Take out savoy cabbage with hollow spoon, add sliced potato in small cubes and water you have cooked kale in it.
- Season with salt and pepper and cook until potato is soft (10-20 minutes).
- Serve as a side dish to steaks, sausages, dried smoked ham etc.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 228.9, Fat 14.8, SaturatedFat 5, Cholesterol 20, Sodium 259.8, Carbohydrate 19.3, Fiber 6.5, Sugar 4.3, Protein 7.5
CROATIAN KALE STEW (KELJ CUSPAJZ)
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Wash the kale and cut it in 1 inch pieces. 2Preheat the water and when it boils put the kale in it and leave it boil for one minute. 3During this operation prepare this: put lard in a pot, heat it and add finely sliced garlic and bacon (pancetta), brown flour in lard (but not too brown). 4Add ground paprika and just few drops of cold water to make "zafrig" (a kind of "sauce veloutè"). 5Take out kale with hollow spoon, add sliced potato in small cubes and water you have cooked kale in it. 6Season with salt and pepper and cook until potato is soft (10-20 minutes). 7Serve as a side dish to steaks, sausages, dried smoked ham etc.
Tips:
- Fresh kale is best: Use fresh, young kale leaves for the best flavor and texture. Avoid kale that is wilted or has yellow or brown spots.
- Chop the kale finely: Finely chopping the kale will help it cook evenly and release its flavor.
- Use a variety of vegetables: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover vegetables. Feel free to add other vegetables that you like, such as carrots, celery, or potatoes.
- Don't overcrowd the pot: When cooking the kale, make sure not to overcrowd the pot. This will prevent the kale from cooking evenly.
- Season to taste: Season the kale stew to taste with salt, pepper, and other spices. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
Conclusion:
Croatian kale stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. It is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste. Whether you like your stew thick or thin, spicy or mild, there is a Croatian kale stew recipe out there for you. So next time you are looking for a comforting and delicious meal, give Croatian kale stew a try.
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